Local ambulance operator seeks interfacility-transfer COPCN; board asks staff to draft limited certificate

A local ambulance provider addressed the board seeking a COPCN (certificate of public convenience and necessity) that would allow the company to conduct interfacility transfers (IFTs) and to be available for special events in Taylor County. The applicant emphasized local staffing, reinvestment of expenditures in the county, and that the intent was not to replace the county's primary 9-1-1 provider.

The applicant said he would not take primary 9-1-1 calls from the county but sought the ability to accept interfacility transfers and to provide on-site medical coverage for contracted special events. "I'm not here to take the 9-1-1 call... I'm here to be able to access it," the applicant said, explaining that a COPCN would allow him to transport patients off-site when working special events or facility transports.

Commissioners and staff raised contract-clarity questions because Taylor County's primary ambulance contract designates Century as the county's primary 9-1-1 responder. A dispatch representative explained the operational practice: when Century lacks an available unit, Century notifies dispatch, and dispatch will then contact the next available vendor on the list, including specialty event providers. Board attorneys and staff discussed whether the county's contract with Century would permit another provider to perform 9-1-1 transports or whether permission from Century would be required.

After discussion, a commissioner recommended instructing staff to draft a COPCN ordinance/document specific to interfacility transfers (modeled on the standing authority granted to Survival Flight in the county for IFTs) and bring it back at the next board meeting for formal action. The board directed staff to prepare that draft; members also suggested obtaining input from Century and reviewing any contractual or legal ramifications beforehand. No final permit was granted at this meeting.